Port Crane Operator

Port Crane Operator

The port crane operator is responsible for loading and unloading bulk and breakbulk cargo from vessels and trucks. This role requires high concentration, precision, and excellent hand-eye coordination. The operator must be certified to handle various heavy equipment and have extensive experience in vessel and terminal operations.

Essential duties and responsibilities include:

• Safely and efficiently operate ship cranes & shore cranes, container handlers, forklifts, yard hustlers, and other support equipment.
• Load and unload bulk & breakbulk cargo from vessels and trucks.
• Complete daily and monthly safety inspections of equipment, record results in the machinery history log, and assist in corrective measures.
• Participate in the training and administration of training for key support personnel, including flagmen, oilers, yard gang, and new operators.
• Maintain standard proficiency rating as established by management.
• Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of general practices applied in the care and safe operation of a wide variety of light to heavy equipment used in the maritime industry.
• Demonstrate thorough knowledge of laws, regulations, safety standards, and procedures applied in the care and safe operation of a wide variety of light to heavy equipment used in the maritime industry.
• Memorize and ensure compliance with standard hand signals for crane operations.
• Follow established safety protocols for crane inspections, including pre-shift, monthly, and annual checks.
• Use standard hand signals for controlling crane operations, such as swing, lower, and stop.
• Additional duties as assigned.

Preferred certifications include:

• Connecticut Hoisting Equipment Operator License or equivalent certification.
• Forklift certification.
• State of CT Crane License.
• Qualified Rigger and Signal Person certification.
• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certification.

Experience with safety protocols for crane inspections includes:

• Pre-Shift Inspection: Check all controls, brakes, and safety devices before starting operations.
• Monthly Inspection: Detailed examination of structural components, wire ropes, and hydraulic systems.
• Annual Inspection: Comprehensive inspection by a certified professional, including load testing and thorough review of all mechanical and electrical systems.

Competencies include:

• The primary job of a port crane operator is to load and unload bulk and break-bulk cargo from or onto vessels and trucks.
• The job requires maximum concentration, precision, excellent hand-eye coordination, and provides clear instructions/directions.
• Understand oral and written communications, both general and technical.

Audible signals include:

• Single Horn Blast: Crane is about to start moving.
• Two Horn Blasts: Crane is about to stop.
• Continuous Horn Blast: Emergency; all personnel should clear the area immediately.

Experience with crane time management and educational requirements include:

• High School diploma or equivalent certification.
• Minimum of 5 years of crane operation experience.
• Experience working in the stevedore industry.

How to apply:

1. Submit your application through our online portal.
2. Alternatively, email your resume and working references to Please use the subject line: "Application for Crane Operator – New Haven Terminal".